Things To Do
in Suriname
Suriname is a small, northeast South American country with a tropical coastal plain, dense rainforests, and abundant biodiversity. Its capital Paramaribo offers a UNESCO-listed wooden city with Dutch colonial architecture and a multicultural, welcoming atmosphere. The population blends Afro-Surinamese, Indian, Javanese, Chinese, Indigenous, and mixed heritage, reflected in food, music, and festivals.
Outside Paramaribo, vast nature reserves, river trips, and rainforest lodges reveal a wildlife-rich landscape.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Paramaribo, the capital city of Suriname. After checking into your hotel, take some time to freshen up and enjoy a hearty breakfast featuring local dishes. Stroll through the historic city center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to admire colonial architecture and vibrant street art.
Visit the Cathedral of St. Peter and St. Paul, the largest wooden structure in the Western Hemisphere. Explore the nearby Independence Square and the Presidential Palace, learning about Suriname's rich history and diverse culture. Stop at a local café for lunch and taste the famous Surinamese roti.
As night falls, head to the Waterfront at Fort Zeelandia for a picturesque view of the sunset over the Suriname River. Enjoy a leisurely dinner at one of the riverside restaurants, sampling delicious traditional fare such as pom or saoto soup. Conclude your day with a relaxed walk through the vibrant nightlife of Paramaribo.
Start your day with a visit to the Central Market, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and taste fresh tropical fruits. Engage with friendly vendors and soak up the bustling atmosphere while shopping for unique souvenirs. Afterward, explore the nearby items of historical significance at the Suriname Museum.
Take a guided tour of the Palm Garden, a serene oasis in the heart of the city filled with diverse palm species. Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by lush greenery and relax before venturing out to the nearby Jodensavanne, a historic Jewish settlement. Discover the remnants of this unique community and its impact on Suriname's cultural heritage.
Return to Paramaribo and enjoy some leisure time before dinner. Consider indulging in a culinary experience at one of the famed local restaurants, savouring a mix of Creole and Indian cuisines. End the night with a visit to the popular jazz bar, where you can enjoy live music and mingle with locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍽Meal at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🏨Hotel per night (mid-range) | $60-120 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within Paramaribo | $3-8 |
| 🧃Bottle of water or soft drink | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural diversity and welcoming people
- UNESCO-listed historic center and easy access to nature
- Compact capital with good infrastructure for a small country
- Warm and immersive local markets and food culture
- Interior travel can be challenging due to limited infrastructure
- High humidity and tropical climate can feel uncomfortable for some travelers
- "Goedemorgen" - Good morning
- "Hoe gaat het?" - How are you?
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please
- "Waar is de wc?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Suriname
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic fortress with river views and colorful colonial architecture—great for sunrise and golden-hour shots.
Shaded, palm-lined park ideal for portraits and candid street scenes.
Colorful wooden facades and narrow lanes offer textures, reflections, and human-interest shots.
Striking white spires set against the city skyline—classic architecture photography.
Golden-hour reflections on the river with life along the waterfront and boats passing by.
Food in Suriname
Suriname Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A cassava mash with a spiced meat filling, wrapped and baked in a banana leaf; a national comfort dish often found in markets and family homes.
Must-Try!
Indo-Surinamese flatbread served with curried potatoes and chickpeas.
A smoky mix of salted meats, usually beef and pork, grilled or barbecued for gatherings.
Fried plantain slices often served with peanut sauce or as a side dish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub near the Waterkant where you can try fresh fruit, street foods, and local snacks.
Snack on bakabana, pastei pastries, dumplings, and spiced skewers as you stroll the riverfront.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is standard when meeting someone; maintain friendly eye contact. In casual contexts, a nod or smile is common.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; lightweight, respectful clothing is appropriate in rural areas and markets.
Dutch is official; Sranan Tongo is widely spoken. English is understood in tourist areas.
Safety
Tipping in Suriname
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common for good service; 5-10% at restaurants if not already included. Round up taxi fares and leave a small tip for hotel staff if service is satisfactory.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect frequent tropical rain showers and high humidity. Pack a compact rain jacket, quick-dry clothing, and water-resistant footwear. It’s lush for wildlife viewing, but some outdoor trails can be slippery.
Characterized by sunnier days and less rainfall, though humidity remains high. Great for river trips and outdoor activities; still carry sun protection and insect repellent.
Suriname at Night
Hiking in Suriname
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A challenging rainforest hike offering a dramatic overlook inside a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Gentle to moderate rainforest hikes with waterfall viewpoints and wildlife spotting.
Coastal jungle trails with opportunities to see wildlife and seasonal sea turtles.
Airports
How to reach Suriname by plane.
Main international gateway to Suriname, located at Zanderij and connected by road to Paramaribo.
Domestic and charter flights hub in Paramaribo, useful for internal travel and short trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
One of the largest ethnic groups, contributing to the country’s culture, music, and cuisine.
Descendants of Indian workers, a central part of Surinamese life and food traditions.
Descendants of Indonesian workers, with their own languages, foods, and customs.
Original inhabitants and Afro-descendant communities with rich traditions in the interior.
A community contributing to commerce, cuisine, and cultural life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Suriname, with active local leagues and a strong following.
Popular in communities with South Asian heritage; played at clubs and schools.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Suriname offers dhal curry, vegetable roti, and bean-based stews; ask for vegetable curries and avoid meat-heavy dishes. Many vendors can tailor roti or rice plates to be vegetarian.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Suriname.